Family: Linaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 279 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Linum
Vegetable: False
Observations: Spain
Description
White flax, known scientifically as Linum suffruticosum, is a noteworthy member of the Linaceae family. First described by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus in his seminal work “Species Plantarum” in 1753, this plant has captured the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
Found primarily in Spain, where it thrives in its native habitat, White flax is a testament to the rich biodiversity of the region. This perennial plant is recognized for its slender stems and small, delicate flowers, which contribute both to its common and scientific names.
At first glance, White flax may appear unimposing, but its role in the ecosystem is far from negligible. It often finds its place in the diverse landscapes of southwest Europe, growing in well-drained soils and basking in the Mediterranean climate’s warmth.
For those interested in plant morphology, White flax provides a fascinating study. The leaves are typically slender and arranged alternately along the stem, often described as needle-like. The flowers, usually white, are five-petaled, encapsulating beauty in their simplicity.
Botanical studies have revealed much about Linum suffruticosum, yet its subtle elegance often lies outside the realm of common knowledge. It is a prime example of the delicate interplay between common flora and their environments, emphasizing the importance of botanical conservation and the continued study of regional plant life.
In summary, White flax or Linum suffruticosum stands as a natural emblem of Spain’s botanical heritage, offering a glimpse into the intricate and often understated world of Mediterranean flora.
Common Names
Eng: white flax
En: White flax
Fr: Lin souffré
It: Lino salsoloide
Synonyms
- Linum tenuifolium subsp. suffruticosum ((L.) Litard.)
- Leucolinum suffruticosum ((L.) Fourr.)
- Cathartolinum suffruticosum ((L.) Rchb.)
- Linum biforme f. suffruticosum ((L.) Clavaud)
- Linum salsoloides var. crispum (Pers.)
- Linum tenuifolium var. suffruticosum ((L.) O.Bolòs & Vigo)
Distribution
- Spain (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jun 29, 2019 by Manu Pacha (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 29, 2019 by Manu Pacha (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 29, 2019 by Manu Pacha (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 29, 2019 by Manu Pacha (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 29, 2019 by Manu Pacha (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken May 22, 2020 by Borre Noe (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 2, 2021 by Pako Santa (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2020 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 21, 2018 by jose (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 21, 2018 by jose (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jul 10, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 18, 2020 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 5, 2022 by Xabi (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 21, 2022 by Gimeno Berga Lucia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2020 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jul 5, 2018 by Miguel A. C. (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 10, 2022 by Ismael Pozuelo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 10, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Marie PORTAS (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken May 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken May 18, 2020 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 10, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 10, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken May 18, 2020 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/8281825)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:544730-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Linum suffruticosum L.)
Specifications
Growth
Ph maximum: 9.0
Ph minimum: 8.0
Light: 9
Atmospheric humidity: 2
Soil nutriments: 2